A KOALA was shot near Bacchus Marsh last night, prompting a police manhunt.
Sen-Constable Karla Dennis said a woman passing by saw the incident along the Werribee River behind Riverview Drive, Hopetoun Park, at around 7.50pm, and phoned police.
The woman told police she saw three men firing bullets up a tree from a late model, dark blue four-while-drive, before a koala fell to the ground, Sen-Constable Dennis said.
Sen-Constable Dennis said it was believed the three men got out of the vehicle, then fired another two shots as the koala lay on the ground.
The men left the scene and were last seen driving towards Melton along the riverbank, she said.
Anyone with information was urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppers.com.au
